Corn-Noodle Casserole
Creamy and comforting, this corn-noodle casserole combines sweet corn, tender macaroni, and melty American cheese for a satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a crowd-pleaser suited to casual gatherings and cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream-style corn, cooked shell macaroni, egg, grated American cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and pour 1/4 cup of melted butter over it.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding cooked bacon or diced vegetables like bell peppers. For a healthier option, substitute whole-grain pasta for the dry shell macaroni. This dish is a great base for experimenting with different cheeses, so feel free to mix in some sharp cheddar or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Corn-Noodle Casserole alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Christmas Corn Bread for a comforting dinner. For a more hearty meal, consider adding grilled chicken or a side of roasted meats. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potluck events.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option; just cover to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn-Noodle Casserole contains roughly 196 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1454mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you don't have American cheese, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat. To keep it that way and add more flavor, you might consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach. These additions will enhance the dish and make it even more nutritious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).